The Many Tales of the Apple
Johnny Appleseed is a folklore story that was always taught in school. Johnny Appleseed real name was actually John Chapman. John Chapman, as a child, was an apprentice to a man who owned apple orchards.
John Chapman grew up to be a missionary. He traveled all over America introducing the apple to others. He was a simple man, but stories about him still circulated while he was alive. Vast parts of the country became familiar with the apple due to him.
Johnny Appleseed, in our minds eye, was someone who went around randomly growing trees and spreading seed. How far from the actual truth can we be? He was more exact than that, he would plant trees for people and share his gospel message at the same time. He wore ragged clothing and bare feet according to the pictures. Johnny Appleseed shared the best he had with others.
Apples were valuable in Greek mythology. Hercules actually had a tough time trying to obtain the golden apples of the Hesperides.
In many fairy tales we see the apple again being used as a weapon of destruction. Do you remember Snow White? The apple was presented to her by her wicked stepmother in an attempt to end her life.
The apple represents birth, life, sex and temptation. The smooth blood red color of the apple was seen as a temptation.
No matter what version you have heard, it is safe to eat apples. Apples are filled with benefits that improve our health and satisfy our need for something sweet.
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